Be yourself—your best self. Employers are looking for professionalism, enthusiasm, and authenticity.

Do Your Research

• Learn everything you can about the organization: website, recent news, and LinkedIn.

• Look up your interviewer on LinkedIn if you know their name.

• Review your own résumé and cover letter so you can confidently talk about your experiences.

Get Prepared

• Bring: Extra copies of your résumé in a professional folder or portfolio.

• Attire: Dress for the job. For professional roles, wear a suit.

  • Professional Attire for Interviewing (PDF) - CCPD Handout
  • Interview Attire - Virginia Tech’s site
  • Dress to Impress - Washington State’s site

• Etiquette: Be ready for dining or social situations—they’re part of the evaluation.

• Arrive early: 5–15 minutes before. Do a test run to know exactly where to go.

Body Language Matters

• Handshake: Firm but not crushing.

• Eye contact: Steady, with natural breaks.

• Posture: Sit tall, lean slightly forward, avoid crossed arms.

• Gestures: Use hands naturally, but don’t fidget.

• Smile: It conveys confidence and positivity.

Deliver with Confidence

• Speak clearly, avoid filler words (“um,” “like”).

• Share specific examples from past experiences to prove your skills.

• Show energy, curiosity, and a “can do” attitude.

Answering Questions

• Behavioral questions: Expect “Tell me about a time when…”

  • Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result.

• Transferable skills: Highlight communication, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability.

• Tough topics: Focus on how you learn quickly, take initiative, and uphold strong values.

Ask Your Own Questions

End with 1–2 thoughtful questions to show your interest. Examples:

• “What do you enjoy about working here?”

• “What qualities are most important in this role?”

Tip: Don’t ask about pay, benefits, or vacation until you have an offer.

Follow Up

• Collect your interviewer’s contact info.

• Send a thank-you email within 24 hours—reiterate your interest and key strengths.

• A thoughtful note can set you apart.

Other Resources

Interview Etiquette

My Interview Checklist (PDF) - CCPD handout

Telephone/Video Interviews (PDF) - CCPD handout

Job-Applications.com’s Interview Questions - Great advice to answering common and tricky interview questions

JobInterviewQuestions.com - This free site offers thousands of job interview questions that are position-specific.

Job Interview Question Database from LiveCareer.com

The Protocol School of Texas’ Interview Tips for College Graduates

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